Artificial aging of Parana pine seed

Abstract

Artificial aging, at 42^o ± 2^oC and 100% relative humidity, of Parana pine seeds (Araucaria angustifolia) resulted in a progressive decrease in their emergence and speed emergence. Various biochemical analyses were performed at various periods of aging. Increasing periods of aging resulted in an increase of sugar total. Nitrogen and protein contents did not change, whereas starch quantities decreased. The amylase activity, height and dry matter weight of the aerial part of seedlings increased with increasing periods of aging. The results of this study indicate that the technique of accelerated aging can be useful to provide further knowledge of the mechanisms associated with the deterioration of forest tree seeds in storage.